Why Inclusivity Matters to Me

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword for me, it’s a value that is close to my heart and it sits at the centre of everything I do as a celebrant.

As someone with a hearing impairment, I know what it feels like to experience the world a little differently. I’ve also experienced first-hand the difference it makes when someone takes the time to listen and adapt, to not consider an impairment or difference as an inconvenience. It’s something I carry into every ceremony I write, every couple I meet, every family I support.

My own family is beautifully diverse - some of my loved ones are in same-sex relationships and my daughter lives with epilepsy. So when I talk about inclusivity, I’m not speaking in theory. I know how important it is to make people feel seen, safe and celebrated, whether that means a quiet space for someone who might need to step away or an extra seat for someone whose role might need adapting on the day. Everybody can feel heard and included when we think ahead and work together.

Practical Ways I Put Inclusivity Into Practice

Over time, I’ve made thoughtful changes to how I work, always with the aim of making every ceremony as accessible and welcoming as possible. Here are a few of the ways I do that:

• Large-print materials for readings and vows and translations where needed.

• Ceremony scripts in other languages so guests who don’t speak English can follow along.

• A welcome message in another language - one groom was Dutch, and I included a greeting for his family. Learning Dutch was no small feat, but the look on their faces (and the applause!) made it so worth it!

• Questionnaires now ask about additional needs, not just for the couple but for guests as well.

• I encourage couples and families to reflect their cultures and backgrounds, whether that’s through music, rituals or meaningful details.

• I’m mindful of physical layout and comfort, considering things like wheelchair access, space for prams or quieter spots for parents and young children.

I’m working to make my online presence more inclusive too, whether that’s through the language and images I use or by eventually recording audio versions of my blogs for blind or visually impaired visitors.

This isn’t a checklist I’m ticking off. It’s a mindset and a commitment to being open, curious and responsive. I know I haven’t got it all perfect. But I’m learning. I’m listening. And I’m adapting.

It's About Belonging

At the end of the day, my goal is simple: I want everyone - every couple, every guest, every child, every parent - to feel like they belong at the ceremonies I create. I want them to feel like they can be 100% themselves and that they’re valued exactly as they are.

So if you’re planning a ceremony and wondering whether certain needs can be accommodated or whether your guests will feel included, please know the answer is yes. Let’s talk about it. Let’s plan it. Let’s make it happen.

Read more about my values here. Got questions or suggestions? I’d love to hear from you.